A Day in The Life: Spring in Halifax

Spring has opened its doors, which means out goes the snow and in comes a little sunshine and rain. It’s not time to pull out your swimsuit yet, but that doesn’t means you can’t enjoy this beautiful season.

Take a Seat on the Patio

With spring in Halifax comes patio season! Our residents are already known to be friendly people, but you’ll see even more smiles going around this time of year. Take a walk on Argyle Street, Grafton Street or the waterfront and you’ll see patio furniture taken out of storage and umbrellas wide open at Durty Nelly’s, Niche, Gahan House, the Auction House, the Stubborn Goat Gastropub and many others. This city loves its patios so much that we have an annual “Patio Day” on April 21, so sit back, relax and enjoy this special season.

Hit the Beach

Because we are snug to the Atlantic shore, there are many beaches to choose from. For a family trip, go down by Hubbards to Queensland. It’s one of the smaller spots but known to locals, and while it gets crowded in the summer, you’ll definitely find less people there during the spring. Rainbow Haven is another popular beach with some of the most stunning sunsets you’ll ever catch. Just a 40-minute drive from Halifax is Crystal Crescent, which offers three beaches with sparkling clear waters. Take your pick – you won’t be disappointed.

Enjoy the Halifax Public Gardens

These Victorian-style gardens are located in the heart of the city by Spring Garden Road. You will notice its wrought-iron fence right away, and expands 17 acres. Take a stroll through the Public Gardens and embrace the beauty of exotic trees, statues, and fountains. This historic spot has been loved by locals and tourists alike ever since it opened in 1867.

Go for a Bike Ride

Of course, the hardcore cyclists don’t let the winter slow them down, but for those of us that need a little ease when riding, this is the perfect time. If you don’t own a bike, I Heart Bikes has you covered and they’re located right on the waterfront. You can get a guided tour around the city or set off on your own adventure and discover some hidden gems. Here are two biking trails to get you started:

-Start at the Waterfront and end at Point Pleasant Park

-Take the Beechville-Lakeside-Timberlea (BLT) Trail (start at the Chain of Lakes Trail off Joseph Howe Drive)

Take a drive, walk or water taxi

It’s the perfect time to take a road trip around the city before the hustle and bustle of the tourist season. Before you hit the road, take a water taxi to McNab’s Island Provincial Park. Hike around the largest island in Halifax Harbour and discover the wonderland of modern ruins and abandoned structures. Don’t be surprised when you see the ancient soda pop factory, a shipwreck cove and many other wonders.

When you do take a drive, make sure you visit Point Pleasant Park and walk through the wooded area that has numerous trails ruins you can explore jogging, walking, or whatever your choice of travel is. Another favourite park here is Long Lake. It is only a 15-minute drive from downtown. You’ll be nestled in some unmarked paths which is perfect for the adventurous hikers out there. This park is also full of streams, rivers, lakeside views and wildlife that you normally wouldn’t see in the city.

As you slowly emerge from winter hibernation, take a little day trip, sip an iced tea on the patio and embrace this fun season.